det.
&
pron.
(
usu. the least)
smallest in amount, extent, or significance.
adj.
used in names of very small animals and plants:
least shrew.
adv.
to the smallest extent or degree.
Phrase
- at least
- not less than; at the minimum.
- if nothing else.
- anyway.
- at the least
(or very least)
- not less than; at the minimum.
- taking the most pessimistic or unfavourable view.
- not in the least
not in the smallest degree; not at all. - not least
notably; in particular. - to say the least
using moderate terms; to put it mildly.
Etymology
OE læst, læsest, of Gmc origin; rel. to less.